6 Great tips to extend your car’s life span
Cars are expensive, and you most likely want your car to remain in top condition or want to take good care of it for the sake of the resale value. We’ve compiled some advice and tips you may not know about to keep your car in top notch for as long as possible:
1. Be patient during the break in period. If your car is new, be patient and keep the speed of the first 1 000 kilometres under 90km/h, or the speed recommended by your car manufacturer (we know this might be hard, but it’s worth it). During the break in period, you should also try to avoid heavy loads on the drivetrain, and don’t allow your car to idle for extended periods.
2. Drive with care everyday. Being considerate towards your car shouldn’t stop after the break-in period. Drive with care every day and your car will reward you with longer intervals without repair.
– Do not race your car’s engine during start-up.
– Accelerate slowly when you begin your drive.
– Warming the engine by letting it idle in the driveway is actually not a good idea.
– Put less strain on your engine and automatic transmission by shifting to neutral at red lights.
– When turning your steering wheel, don’t hold it in an extreme right or left position for more than a few seconds.
3. Don’t stop for fuel if you see the fuel tanker at the station. As the station’s underground tanks are being filled, the turbulence can stir up sediment. Sediment in your car’s fuel can clog fuel filters and fuel injectors, causing poor performance and possibly necessitating repairs.
5. Don’t keep loads of keys on your car’s key chain. It makes for a heavy load hanging off the car key when it’s in the ignition.The weight, combined with bouncing while you drive, can wear out the tumblers inside the ignition and eventually lead to ignition switch failure.
5. If you are not going to use your car for more than a month, store it properly to prevent unnecessary damage and repairs upon your return.
– Fill up your fuel tank to prevent condensation from taking place.
– Wash and wax the car to protect the cars outer layer.
– Disengage the parking brake to help avoid brake corrosion.
– Put the car on jack stands to take the weight of the vehicle off the wheels and tyres.
– Disconnect and remove the battery to keep it from draining.
– Plug the bumper with a rag to prevent moist air from infiltrating into it (just remember to take the rag out when you start driving again).
6. Lastly, always try to park in the shade or in a garage if you can. This minimises interior damage from UV sunlight and heat.
(Source: Reader’s Digest)